But for a Martini with a delicious point of difference, look no further than the Clydesdale. Sharp, crisp apples provide a fresh fruit vibe, lifted to loftier heights by the citrus elements. It almost seems to transcend the barriers of gin, deliciously straying in to an almost apple brandy territory. Note: If you would like to read my fuller write up on Gin Festival at Manchester Baths, featuring Hidden Curiosities Gin, you can find it here: As it falls under a 40% ABV, Sloe gin can’t technically be called ‘proper’ gin. But its popularity and variety make it an important part of any thorough gin guide anyway. And if you’re looking for a bottle to enjoy, Spirit Works’ offering is the way to go. And let me tell you, this makes for a stunningly good G&T! Again, an audible wow was uttered. The light tonic allows more of those freshly sliced apples and pears to burst forwards, with a crunch of sweet rhubarb and kiss of watermelon like freshness. It’s crisp, refreshing and perfect for the spring weather! All pieces and opinions are my own and importantly I ask that you don't just take my word for it. I actively encourage you to try these wonderful drinks for yourself to see if you agree or disagree with my views.

Gin Glass Holder - Etsy UK Gin Glass Holder - Etsy UK

Like many other brands, Bols has expanded their genever selection. Beyond the original, you can find barrel-aged bottles, which are rested in French Limousin oak casks for 18 months. It's time to go old school and get a taste of gin brands that have revived the oldest gin recipes in the world. We begin with the oldest of the two, genever. To further reinforce the island connection, the distillery’s coordinates are printed on the tape across the bottle stopper. You can be sure that your bottle of Harris Gin was created in Tarbet at 57° 53’ N 6° 48’ W.

Distilled since the 1870s, Tanqueray is now produced at Camron Bridge in Edinburgh, Scotland, one of Europe's largest distilleries. What's most amazing is that this four times distilled gin uses just four botanicals: juniper, coriander seed, angelica root, and licorice.

Isle of Harris Gin Review | From the Gin Shelf Isle of Harris Gin Review | From the Gin Shelf

Whilst the characteristics I enjoyed from the Drovers are retained, a key point of difference that brings a smile to this particular bloggers face is that the citrus becomes brighter and more vivid. The gin is rounded and ridiculously well balanced. The herbaceous and leafy finish of the Scottish hedgerow adds to the enjoyable longevity, whilst the gin never threatens to wobble from the tightrope of sublime flavour in to unbridled power.

7. Skagerrak Nordic Dry Gin

A mention has to go to the bottle and brand design of the teams flagship foray in to the gin world…I’m actually rather fond of it! Linden Pride, co-owner of Dante NYC, notes it is particularly excellent in a martini. “Preferred as a 50/50 martini, Fords Gin has the bright citrus notes, and mild juniper palate that gives this gin the strength to be easily distinguished in a martini, whilst having the nuances to balance with the fragrance of the vermouth." The first of several navy strength gins on our list is a relative newcomer to the Scottish Gin scene. Launching in May 2020, Biggar Gin have built on their growing following with the playfully named Biggar Strength. Winner of a silver medal at the London Spirits Competition 2020, it uses the locally foraged hawthorn berry as a key botanical. And it seems I’m not alone. Since its launch, the Aranami Strength has gone on to snag a whole host of awards, including two stars in the ‘Great Taste Awards 2020’, a gold medal in the ‘Women’s Wine and Spirits Awards 2020’, the ‘Industry Choice Award’ in ‘The Gin Guide Awards 2020’ and was named the ‘Best Navy Strength Gin’ in the ‘World Gin Awards 2020’. Here’s better there are lots more plaudits and podium finishes to come! This really is a case of a triple threat on the tasting, where all of the sense are brought to life in a balanced and equally measured way.